Jackets Look To Upset Devils In Battle For Eastern Conference Wild Card

The NHL playoffs are heating up, and the Calgary Flames are looking to make a deep run in the Western Conference. But in a twist of fate, they'll have to face off against a familiar foe in the form of the New Jersey Devils in the seventh-place showdown. The Flames have been on a tear, with a 7-2-1 record over their last 10 games, and they're looking to upset the Devils and secure a wild card spot.

As the NHL season draws to a close, teams are scrambling to secure a spot in the playoffs. The Devils, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing season. With a 35-32-7 record, they'll need to win out and hope that the other teams in the East don't fall too far behind.

The Flames and Devils have a long history of competition, with the Flames holding a 41-31-6 edge in their all-time series. However, this series will be a different beast altogether. The stakes are high, with a wild card spot on the line.

Team Analysis

Calgary Flames

The Flames have been one of the most consistent teams in the league, with a well-rounded offense and a stout defense. They've been led by stars like Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk, who have been putting up points left and right.

Here are some key stats to know about the Flames:

• 102 points on the season, ranking 8th in the West
• 35-32-7 record, with a +10 goal differential
• Johnny Gaudreau leads the team with 32 goals and 44 assists
• Matthew Tkachuk leads the team in scoring with 38 points

New Jersey Devils

The Devils, on the other hand, have been a bit more up and down this season. They've had some big wins, but also some tough losses.

Here are some key stats to know about the Devils:

• 35-32-7 record, ranking 10th in the East
• 182 goals scored, ranking 13th in the league
• Nico Hischier leads the team with 29 goals and 34 assists
• Taylor Hall leads the team in scoring with 32 points

Key Matchups

• Goalie Matchup:
The Flames have been relying on David Rittich to lead their charge, while the Devils have been getting solid performances from MacKenzie Blackwood.
• Power Play:
The Flames have been one of the top power play teams in the league, with a 23.1% conversion rate. The Devils, on the other hand, have struggled with their own power play, converting at just 18.2%.
• Defensive Matchup:
The Flames have been playing some of the best defense in the league, with a 2.43 goals-against average. The Devils, meanwhile, have struggled to find consistency on the back end.

Injuries and Suspensions

Both teams have been dealing with injuries and suspensions, which could play a big role in this series.

Here are the latest injury and suspension reports:

• Flames:
  • Matthew Tkachuk (upper body injury) - expected to miss 2-3 games
  • Johnny Gaudreau (lower body injury) - expected to miss 1-2 games
• Devils:
  • Nico Hischier (knee injury) - expected to miss 2-3 games
  • Kyle Palmieri ( concussion) - expected to miss 1-2 games

Coaching Analysis

Mike Babcock (Calgary Flames)

Mike Babcock has been one of the most successful coaches in the league, with a.595 winning percentage. He's led the Flames to several playoff appearances, and has a reputation for being one of the toughest coaches in the league.

Here are some interesting facts about Babcock:

*.595 winning percentage in his NHL career

• 4th all-time in wins among active coaches
• Has coached 7 teams in his career, including the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs

Ray Shero (New Jersey Devils)

Ray Shero has been the Devils' general manager since 2013, and has been responsible for shaping the team's roster. He's had some success, but has also had his fair share of struggles.

Here are some interesting facts about Shero:

• Has drafted 2nd overall 5 times in his career
• Has coached with the Rangers, Penguins, and Devils
• Has a reputation for being a bit of a "tinkerer" when it comes to line combinations and other on-ice strategies

Coaching Style

• Aggressive Defense:
Babcock is known for his aggressive defensive style, which has paid off in big ways for the Flames.
• System-Based Approach:
Shero has emphasized the importance of system-based hockey, with a focus on moving the puck quickly and efficiently.
• In-Game Adjustments:
Both coaches are known for making adjustments in real-time, which has helped them stay one step ahead of their opponents.

Game Predictions

Here are some predictions for the series:

• Game 1:
  The Flames will come out on top, winning 3-2 in a hard-fought game.
• Game 2:
  The Devils will bounce back, winning 4-3 in a shootout.
• Game 3:
  The Flames will regain their momentum, winning 5-2 in a dominant performance.

Conclusion

The seventh-place showdown between the Flames and Devils is shaping up to be a must-watch series. With a wild card spot on the line, both teams will be giving it their all. Who will come out on top?